Etch: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the process of cutting into a surface with acid or a sharp tool. Primarily used in artistic contexts.

• The artist used acid to etch the intricate design onto the metal plate.
• The memory of that day is etched in my mind forever.

Typically involves cutting or carving a design into a hard surface, often as a form of decoration or for identification purposes. Common in jewelry and medals.

• They engraved their initials on the wedding rings.
• The trophy was engraved with his name and the year he won.

Means to write or carve words or symbols on an object, usually for a formal or official purpose. Often seen in monuments or commemorative plates.

• The ancient tablet was inscribed with mysterious symbols.
• He inscribed a heartfelt message inside the book cover.

Commonly used to describe the act of shaping something from a material like wood or stone using a tool like a knife or chisel.

• He carved a beautiful statue out of marble.
• We like to carve pumpkins for Halloween.

This word is often used to describe the process of creating designs or text on metal, glass, or other hard surfaces using acid or a similar substance. It can also metaphorically describe something being deeply impressed into one's memory.

• She decided to etch her initials on the metal pendant.
• The tragic event was etched in his memory forever.

Engraving is commonly used in artistic and professional contexts to refer to the practice of cutting a design into a hard surface, often for decorative or identification purposes.

• The artist spent hours on the engraving of the landscape on the wooden plaque.
• The trophy had a beautiful engraving of the team's logo.

Impression refers to a mark or outline left on a surface by something pressing onto it, and it can also describe the effect or influence something has on someone. This word can have both physical and metaphorical uses.

• The seal left an impression on the soft wax.
• The speaker's powerful words made a lasting impression on the audience.

Print is used to talk about text or images being transferred onto paper, fabric, or other materials, generally through a mechanical process. It's also used to describe the act of publishing written material or producing copies.

• She decided to print her photos on canvas as a gift.
• His first novel was finally going to print next spring.